Tag Archive for: electric dog fence

dog wearing an old invisible dog fence collar

Freedom fence, Invisible Fence, What are they?

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What is a freedom fence or  Invisible fence?

So what is a freedom dog fence? it’s actually is a generic name for an electronic dog fence. Very similar to a “hoover”, a freedom fence, invisible fence or DogFence are often used to describe the containment fences. These dog fences were first produced in the USA over 40 years ago.

The History of Invisible Fences

Electronic pet containment systems originated in the year 1973. The overall concept began due to humanitarian emotion from American Richard Peck. Peck was a salesman in Pennsylvania selling his company’s metal cutting and welding services.

Richard Peck original inventor of the freedom dog fence

Richard Peck with his original Patents

“I traveled the United States and everywhere I went, I literally saw hundreds of dogs that had been slaughtered by cars. They were all over the roadway,” Peck said years later. “I loved dogs and knew there had to be a way to stop this.”

The development of dog fences

In 1973, Peck partnered with an electronic engineer and patented the first electronic dog fence system. The collar was placed on a pet and received radio waves from a wire buried beneath the ground. The radio waves were transmitted through the wire from a transmitter protected inside the house. When the radio waves are received by the collar, it sends a brief uncomfortable static shock under the pet’s skin. The “shock” deters the pet from traveling farther into a designated zone. In todays’ world date the word “shock” should be replaced by stimulation as the impulse produced is incredibly low and incapable of inducing a state of shock.

Always concerned for dog safety, Peck worked with the University Of Pennsylvania School Of Veterinary Medicine. Together they conducted extensive research on the short-and long-term effects the new system would have on animals. The study proved it was extremely effective for influencing behavior of animals and keeping them contained in a specified area. Furthermore, the study proved that pets that were contained by a freedom dog fence had no long-term ill effects from the stimulation.

No boundary gardens

The late 1970s in the USA there was a rise in the popularity of housing estates forbidding traditional fencing. This made it almost impossible to have a large dog. Naturally with the new “invisible fence systems”  quickly became popular. Peck initially sold the systems through catalogs and direct mail. The growth of the company was very slow. There were only 50 systems sold the first year. The fences were promoted by two nationally distributed dog magazines, Dogs and Dog Fancy.

Peck retired in the early 1980s and sold his company to private entrepreneurs outside of Philadelphia. These entrepreneurs invested in product improvements and named the product “Invisible Fence.” The engineering staff began refining the technology of the existing product. The company began selling a compact, lighter version of the receiver collar that went from 13 ounces down to 3 ounces. Thus the market was opened so that smaller dogs and cats could utilize the Invisible Fence solution.

New Manufacturers enter the market

In 1990, the overall patent for the technology expired and other companies to began to appear. This led to the rise in other manufacturers, PetSafe, DogWatch, and Innotek. These Companies have produced their own version of the original invisible fence. The early systems were not available for self-installation and Freedom Fence Dealers were part of the PetSafe network that started offering installation across the USA.

The market went worldwide

Dog Fence, Invisible Fence and Freedom Fence dealers started to import the technology into Europe and Australia. These markets were mainly self-installation markets and over time some dealerships started to offer a limited installation service through agents and part-time sub-contractors.

In the UK there were 3 Companies offering Installation for freedom dog fences:

Invisible Fence

The original Invisible Fence UK Dealer has recently retired after selling both Invisible Fence and Innotek systems for over 25 years. Most of the Invisible dog fences were sold for self-installation.

Freedom Fence

This business model is slightly different and is made up of a large number of representatives who work on a sub-contract basis. These individuals will install the PetSafe and PetSafe Professional brand of dog fence. PetSafe fences use the same AM technology that was used to produce the original Invisible Fence systems. As these are part time representatives they do not all offer the same level of service.

DogFence

DogFence  Ltd were the first Company to offer complete onsite Professional Installation & Training for dogs and cats. This Company uses the DogWatch brand of hidden fence which was developed using an FM radio frequency. When it comes to technology the FM signal is far safer and faster than the AM operated fences. DogFence Ltd pioneered bringing the full installation & training service to the UK. Unlike Freedom Fence the installers are all employed by DogFence. This gives consistency in quality of service and equipment standards.

Why is Technology Important?

Arguably most peoples pets are part of their family, they are as important as children or siblings. Naturally one wants to do everything they can to protect them which is why they install a dog fence. As with your car it is important to look at safety features within each product.

The Original Invisible Fence used an AM radio signal. This was mirrored by all manufacturers except DogWatch (DogFence). DogWatch inc were concerned about the high numbers of false activation on the receiver collars with AM. The dog may not be in the zone but the collar was activated because the collar picked up a similar signal. It is for this reason that they decided to explore using an FM signal. After developing and patenting the FM signal it quickly became clear that this was a far superior channel.

Why is the FM signal safer? The reason for the FM signal is to ensure that nothing else can activate the dog or cats computer collar. The Freedom Fence and Invisible Fence brands use OOK (on/off keying).  With OOK the collar is open to picking up other signals when it is in the “down” time. This means that the collar can activate when the pet is not in the “no go zone” as it has “heard” another signal.

With the DogFence system the signal is constant and the collar can only read the programmed signal. In order to reduce case of false activation freedom fence and invisible fence systems use a 2nd signal to reduce confusion. Naturally checking for 2 signals slows down the reaction time on the collar.

Why does speed affect the dog fence?

Put simply if your dog is racing towards the no go zone the collar needs to stop him before he runs into the road. With the DogFence system if he runs at 10mph he will only get 0.125ft into the zone before the collar has given a warning beep and impulse. With a freedom fence he will be at 7ft before the collar has activated. Conversely many people never consider the shut down time on the fence. What happens if the dog retreats? How quickly will the collar stop? Again, speed is crucial the start up and the shut down times are equal. If your dog retreats the FM fences will shut down in less than 1 second. With the PetSafe, Invisible Fence and Freedom Fences AM brands the time is 2 – 5 seconds. Food for thought!

freedom fence and dog fence collar reaction times illustrated with 2 dogs running at 10mph

Collar reaction times for DogFence and Freedom Fence. DogFence is 15 times quicker!

Conclusion

Today there are well more than 2 million freedom dog fence systems installed worldwide. Recent studies by Lincoln University and the UK Governments consultation have proved that these fences save the lives of dogs and cats. It maybe that you are skeptical or adverse to the idea of using a Freedom dog fence but those that use them swear by them. A few of the comments from the Government consultation can be read here:-

If you would like to obtain more information on our containment fences call us (01628) 476475 or click here.

 

 

 

 

 

Electric dog fences will give keep dogs free to run

Are electric dog fences legal?

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Are electric dog fences legal?

So you’ve read the recent media reports and are confused about whether electric dog fences are legal. If you are concerned about your pet’s safety and want to use an electric dog fence read on …..

 

 

 

 

 

The good news is if you are considering installing an electric dog fence they are completely Legal to use in England. Our dogs and cats can have their freedom and safety!

In March 2018 the Government launched a consultation into the use of all electronic dog and cat collars.  Over a 6 week consultation period 7000+ people responded. Interestingly, the majority of people (64%) were opposed to a ban. The Government looked at the evidence and the  research for both the hand held units (aka remote training collars) and containment fences (aka electric dog fences). In August the Government announced that they would not ban invisible dog fence systems. They went on to state that these fence systems offer safety to pets.

Are there any regulations for installing a electric dog fence?

After considering the evidence the Government noted that in the interests of pet welfare containment fences must be Professionally installed. They . From Autumn 2018 all containment fences will have to be professionally installed with onsite training for the cat or dog.

What do I get with Professional Installation?

So what does Professional Installation give the customer? Firstly extensive knowledge as well as advise and a good standard of product. Companies that offer full installation will have correctly trained their operatives. The operatives will be trained to  know where to place the wire and how to correctly train the pet. These Companies will have also researched the best products in terms of durability and safety. If a product is constantly breaking down due to poor quality of wire or hardware it will leave the pet vulnerable.

When installing an electric dog fence correct placement of the cable is crucial. Ideally the cable will be buried to avoid damage. In situations where burial is not possible the Installer will find a safe position above the ground.  The product sold should have in-built safety features to protect the pet. This will include automatic shutdowns, a low battery warning and a good long battery life.  It is important to consider that if the battery runs out the pet could run out! When installing the cable advice should be given on areas to avoid and where possible the cable should follow natural boundaries.

Once the fence has been installed the Professional should train the cat or the dog for the owner. Ongoing  guidance and support should be part of the service.  A reputable Installation Company should keep records of the pets individual requirements and offer a follow up service for the future.

How do I know if I am getting a Professional Installation?

Companies that offer full installation will have a proven track record  so it will be easy to ask for references and check reviews. They should also offer installation using the trenching equipment and post installation service. Using a one man band or sub-contractor may not meet the Professional Installation regulations require. Due to the high cost of the installation equipment it is unlikely that these individuals will have access to correct installation tools and are most likely not trained. Furthermore a reputable installation Company will usually offer a good guarantee regarding their product and service.

Intrigued and want to learn more? call us on:  03450 623 623 or email us on: info@dogfence.co.uk today.

https://dogfence.co.uk/quote/

 

 

 

Active dogs safely contained by a robust dog fence on vast, uneven ground in a beautiful, hilly landscape."

Top Tips to Stop your Dog from Escaping Out of The Garden

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Top Tips to Stop your Dog from Escaping Out of The Garden

stop dogs escaping from garden

Yipee – let’s go guys!

Boredom, loneliness, territory protection, prey instincts and separation anxiety are reasons that may lead a dog to stray. So how do you stop your dog from escaping? The answer may be more straight forward than you think.  Firstly it is important to assess the reasons why the dog is escaping.  What is it that draws him off, is it food, livestock another dog or boredom? It goes without saying that every dog owner wishes to prevent their dog from escaping and getting into danger. Outside the safety of the garden your dog risks getting into a fight, being hit by a vehicle, being stolen or even eating something poisonous. There is also responsibility; a free roaming dog is a threat to children, livestock and even other dogs on a lead.

Train your dog?

You may have already asked your trainer how to stop your dog from escaping. Many owners report that the dog develops the habit of escaping through the front door as soon as it is opened. They may also get rewarded for escaping. They get to roam the neighbourhood, scour bins and possibly enjoy a game with another dog! Hence, this then becomes a hard to break habit. Teach your dog to wait at the door until you open it for him and to never go out on its own. Always rewards his good behavior. Your dog will stop getting out of the garden to enjoy treats from you.

Secure your garden

Ensure that your garden area is well secured to stop your dog from escaping. You may be able to use a 6-foot fence to secure the area because most dogs cannot jump over it – you could also consider digging in a chicken wire along the fence line below ground. When a dog is determined to escape, it can do anything to gain access to digging under the 6-foot fence. The chicken wire will be uncomfortable for the dog, and may prevent deter the dog from digging. You can also place concrete or wood blocks at the bottom of your fence to discourage digging. Try to avoid picket fencing as this can cause serious injury to your dog or cat if they impale themselves on the stakes. The issue with a lot of fencing is that wildlife can damage the wire and make holes within the fencing.

Containment fencing

If you have an uneven garden terrain, consider having a smaller dog run that could be confined to one corner. Another alternative for securing the garden is installing underground or invisible fencing. The hidden fence uses a small computer collar that interacts with a signal that surrounds the property. When the dog enters the “no go zone” the dog’s collar reacts to the radio signal and gives the dog a high pitched warning beep to alert the dog that he or she is in the wrong area. If the dog continues the collar gives out a low level static shock (correction). The dog will have been trained to know where the “no go zone” area is located through a training protocol that uses both vocal and visual indicators. The advantage of an invisible dog fence is that they can be installed on nearly any terrain.

Over the years there has been negative press on the use of electronic dog fences, often referred to as electric dog fence but recent studies have dispelled the myths, indeed a study into cat containment reported that there are no negative long term effects with using an electronic fence. (Lincoln 2016) https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/news/2016/09/1265.asp.

The issue of how to stop your dog from escaping is always going to be a difficult subject but below are few tips:-

Driveways and open boundaries

Driveways are always going to be a weak point, as are open areas which cannot be fenced due to planning restrictions. These areas really are ideal for using electric dog fences. Escaping dogs will always use the weakest point on a property and an open gateway or clear area is a golden opportunity for a dog to make a bid for freedom. An underground dog fence will operate invisibly and effectively 24/7 to prevent the dog or cat from escaping through the vulnerable area. Owners often install electric gates to keep dogs and cats off the roads, however, most dogs will quickly learn that when they hear the buzzer they have an open opportunity to not just run out but amble out at a steady pace. An underground dog fence can be fitted in conjunction with electric gates to prevent the pet from escaping when they hear the buzzer.

stop dogs from escaping through driveway

An open driveway is difficult to secure.

Consequences of an escaping dog

If your dog escapes and is caught by a council dog warden you may be issued with a warning, a caution or a fixed penalty fine. If your dog is considered out of control you may even be prosecuted and fined. The penalty is up to 6 months in prison or an unlimited fine!  This is surely a big enough incentive to stop a a dog from escaping! Also further controls can be given to the owner.  In some cases the dog may be transferred to a local kennels whilst the owner is located at a heavy daily cost or even transferred to shelter and possibly re-homed. Recent media reports have also found out that the RSPCA is too quick to euthanise. Sadly owners pets have been permanently separated from their vets within a matter of weeks.

 

Exercise your dog

A dog that only stays and plays in the garden will eventually get bored, stressed, frustrated and unhappy. Dog’s need a change of scenery. Just like people a change is as good as a rest. If your dog is bored it will look for ways to break the tedium.  For you and your dog’s sanity it is advisable to walk your dog every day if possible. This way he can experience a new environment, remain engaged and interact with other dogs. Exercises not only boosts your dog’s socialization skills but also stimulates its mind. Country walks or walks in the park are a great way to stimulate your dog. The sounds, scents and interaction with nature and other dogs will keep him fresh. If you exercise your dog daily or regularly then this should help to stop your dog escaping from the garden.

Conclusion

Just like human beings, dogs like adventure and to discover new things. If you want to stop your dog from escaping you need to break the cycle. It may be that you need to install a containment fence or that you need to train your dog or exercise him more. If the issue is not tackled then the habit will continue. As an owners we must look at the issue from two angles. Primarily we need to be responsible for our dog’s welfare, state of mind and health. However, we also have a responsibility to those people, livestock and property that a wandering dog may come in contact with.  An engaged happy dog will be less likely to wander.

 

 

Wireless dog fence vs wired dog fence showing a circular wireless boundary compared with a wired boundary following the full garden perimeter

Wireless dog fence – the truth – do they work?

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Wireless Dog Fence vs Wired Dog Fence: Which Is Best for Your Garden?

A wireless dog fence and a wired dog fence are both designed to help keep a dog safely within a defined area, but they create that boundary in very different ways. A wireless dog fence generally creates a circular boundary around a transmitter, while a wired dog fence follows a boundary cable positioned around the actual shape of your garden.

That difference can be particularly important in UK gardens, where boundaries are rarely perfect circles and properties may include slopes, woodland, outbuildings, open driveways or neighbouring roads. Your dog’s personality, behaviour and drive also matter when choosing any form of electronic dog containment.

At DogFence, we have specialised in electronic pet containment in the UK for more than 20 years and professionally install wired dog fence systems. We don’t believe one solution is right for every dog or every property, so this guide explains the practical differences between a wireless dog fence and a wired dog fence – including situations where a wireless system may be perfectly suitable.

Wireless dog fence vs wired dog fence showing a circular wireless boundary compared with a wired boundary following the full garden perimeter

Wireless vs wired dog fence: a wireless system typically creates a circular boundary around the transmitter, while a wired dog fence can follow the full shape of your property, including gardens, hedges and driveways.

 

What is a wireless dog fence?

A wireless dog fence uses a transmitter to create an electronic containment area without installing a boundary wire around the perimeter of the property.

The transmitter is normally positioned inside the property and sends out a radio signal. The dog wears a compatible receiver collar and is trained to recognise the warning given as it approaches the edge of the permitted area.

Because there is no perimeter wire to install, wireless dog fences can be relatively quick and simple to set up. For the right dog and the right property, this can be a significant advantage.

However, a traditional wireless dog fence generally creates a circular or radial boundary around the transmitter. The electronic boundary therefore does not necessarily follow your fences, hedges, driveway or actual property line.

Wireless systems can also be more affected by the environment in which they are used. Uneven or undulating ground, dense woodland, trees and buildings can potentially affect how consistently a wireless signal reaches different parts of a property.

What is a wired dog fence?

A wired dog fence uses a boundary cable to establish the containment area. The cable can be positioned around the perimeter of the garden or property, allowing the electronic boundary to follow its actual shape.

The dog wears a receiver collar and, just as with a wireless dog fence, must be properly trained to recognise the boundary and respond appropriately to its warning.

Because the boundary is determined by the position of the wire rather than the transmission of a wireless signal across the whole property, a wired electric dog fence can be designed around:

  • irregularly shaped gardens
  • existing fences and hedges
  • driveways and entrance gates
  • long or narrow gardens
  • woodland and heavily wooded areas
  • undulating or sloping ground
  • outbuildings
  • large gardens and rural properties
  • farms and equestrian properties
  • areas within the property where the dog should not have access
  • ponds, swimming pools and other exclusion zones

This flexibility is one of the principal reasons DogFence specialises in professionally installed wired dog fence systems.

Wireless vs wired dog fence: what’s the difference?

Wireless dog fence vs wired dog fence UK comparison showing differences in boundary shape, uneven terrain, woodland, buildings and driveways

Wireless vs wired dog fence comparison. Wireless systems typically create a circular radio boundary, while a wired dog fence can follow the actual shape of a property, including irregular gardens, woodland, slopes, driveways and outbuildings.

Neither type of electronic dog fence is automatically right for every dog or every property. The most appropriate system depends on the layout of the land, nearby hazards, terrain, buildings and how accurately the containment boundary needs to be positioned. Your dog’s personality, behaviour and drive are equally important considerations.

When can a wireless dog fence work well?

A wireless dog fence can be a practical option where the property has plenty of relatively level, open space and a circular containment area can be positioned safely away from roads and other hazards.

It may also appeal to owners who want a system that can be installed relatively quickly without laying a boundary cable.

The important question is not simply whether a wireless dog fence works. It is whether the boundary created by that particular system works for your property and your dog’s personality, behaviour and drive.

If the permitted wireless area fits comfortably within the safe part of the garden and the property is suitable for a radio-based boundary, a wireless dog fence may be sufficient.

When is a wired dog fence more suitable?

A wired dog fence can be particularly useful when the electronic boundary needs to follow the actual shape and features of the property.

This is common in UK properties where a garden may have hedges on one side, fencing on another, an open driveway at the front, neighbouring properties nearby or uneven ground.

Instead of fitting the garden inside a predetermined wireless containment area, the wired boundary can be designed around the property.

A wired dog fence can be particularly suitable for:

  • long or narrow gardens
  • L-shaped or irregular plots
  • open driveways
  • properties bordered by roads
  • dogs escaping through hedges
  • dogs digging underneath existing fencing
  • dogs jumping or climbing physical fences
  • properties requiring specific exclusion areas
  • properties with undulating or sloping ground
  • properties with outbuildings
  • woodland and heavily wooded properties
  • farms and equestrian properties
DogFence wired dog fence installation across steep and undulating ground

Unlike wireless systems, a wired dog fence can follow the contours of steep and undulating ground. Here, the DogFence boundary wire is being installed across challenging rural terrain.

Can a wireless dog fence follow the shape of my garden?

A traditional wireless dog fence generally cannot follow an irregular property boundary in the same way as a wired dog fence. Its containment area is determined by the radio signal produced by the transmitter and is typically circular or radial.

This may not matter on a large, open property. However, it becomes much more important when the safe boundary needs to run close to fences, hedges, roads, neighbouring gardens or an open driveway.

A wired dog fence provides greater control because the boundary is established by the position of the cable.

Can a dog fence create exclusion zones within the garden?

One of the advantages of a properly designed wired dog fence is the ability to create boundaries around specific areas within a property, not just around its outer perimeter.

Depending on the system design, dogs can be kept away from areas such as swimming pools, ponds, children’s play areas, vegetable gardens, flower beds or other places where you don’t want them to go.

This can be particularly useful on larger or more complex properties where the dog can have considerable freedom without necessarily having access to every part of the land.

Read more about using DogFence to create dog exclusion zones around areas of your garden.

Can wireless and wired dog fences work with existing fencing?

Yes. An electronic dog fence does not necessarily replace an existing fence or hedge.

Many DogFence customers already have physical boundaries but have a dog that has discovered a way to escape – perhaps by digging underneath a fence, jumping or climbing it, squeezing through gaps or pushing through a hedge.

In these situations, a wired dog fence can be positioned to work alongside the existing physical boundary and provide an additional layer of containment.

Read our guide to dog-proofing your garden and preventing common escape routes.

Can I install a wireless dog fence myself?

Yes. Many wireless dog fences are specifically designed for DIY installation, and this is one of their main attractions. Some wired dog fence systems can also be self-installed, while others are supplied as part of a professional installation and training service.

However, installing the equipment is only one part of establishing a successful electronic containment system. The position of the boundary is important, but training is one of the most important parts of any dog fence set-up.

Whether the dog fence is wired or wireless, the complete recommended training programme should be carried out. The dog needs to learn where the boundary is, understand the warning and know exactly how to respond to it. Good training helps create a successful outcome in which the dog can confidently enjoy the freedom available within its safe area.

If you are installing a system yourself, check that it is supplied with enough training flags to mark the boundary clearly. As a practical guide, we recommend at least 20 training flags for every 100 metres of boundary, together with comprehensive, easy-to-follow training instructions.

Support is also worth considering before choosing where to buy your dog fence. If purchasing through a general third-party online retailer, check what specialist dog-fence training and technical support will actually be available after purchase. A reputable specialist dog fence supplier should be able to help not only with the initial set-up and training, but also with questions and ongoing support after the system has been installed.

At DogFence, our professionally installed systems include an assessment of the property, boundary design, installation and structured training with the dog and owner, together with ongoing support.

Why is training so important with a wireless or wired dog fence?

Training is fundamental whether you choose a wireless dog fence or a wired dog fence. The technology establishes the boundary, but the training teaches the dog what that boundary means.

A receiver collar should never simply be placed on a dog and the dog left to discover the boundary for itself. The dog should be introduced to the boundary in a structured way so that it learns to recognise the warning and retreat confidently into the safe area.

DogFence has always regarded training as part of the containment system rather than an optional extra.

A dog in training on a DogFence electronic dog fence systems

Training the dog using the marker flags

DogFence and the UK Government: why installation and training matter

DogFence consulted directly with the UK Government in 2018 during discussions surrounding electronic training collars and electronic containment fences.

At that time, the Government’s proposals envisaged electronic containment systems being supplied with professional installation and training, reflecting the importance placed on correct system set-up and proper training when using this type of containment.

That principle remains central to the way DogFence works today. When an electronic dog fence is correctly specified, installed and introduced through appropriate training, it can help prevent dogs escaping from their property, becoming lost or reaching hazards such as nearby roads, while allowing them greater freedom to enjoy their garden.

Whether you choose a wired or wireless dog fence, the technology is only part of the solution. Correct boundary design and thorough training are fundamental to a successful outcome and a confident, happy dog.

Can a dog run through a wireless or wired dog fence?

Because neither a wireless nor a wired electronic boundary is a physical barrier, a dog can technically cross it. Effective electronic containment therefore depends on appropriate system design and, importantly, the dog learning where the boundary is and how to respond to its warning.

The objective is for the dog to recognise the warning and turn back before crossing the containment boundary.

The dog’s personality and drive also need to be considered. A dog with a strong chase instinct, for example, needs to be assessed and trained appropriately rather than assuming that simply installing a dog fence will solve the problem.

Read our full guide: Can a Dog Run Through an Invisible Fence?

Why does DogFence use a wired dog fence?

DogFence has specialised in electronic pet containment in the UK for more than 20 years. We use professionally installed wired dog fence technology because it allows us to design the containment boundary around the individual property rather than requiring the property to fit within a predetermined wireless boundary.

That can be particularly important around roads, driveways, neighbouring properties, woodland, undulating terrain, outbuildings, irregular garden boundaries and areas within the property where access needs to be restricted.

For farms, equestrian properties and larger rural homes, it also means the containment boundary can be designed around the way the property is actually used.

But we don’t believe that means everyone should buy a wired DogFence.

A wireless dog fence may be perfectly adequate for some dogs and properties. Equally, there are dogs and circumstances where we may advise that an electronic containment system isn’t appropriate at all.

Find out when an electronic dog fence may not be suitable for your dog.

Wireless dog fence vs wired dog fence: which should I choose?

If you have a large, relatively level and open area where a circular containment zone can sit comfortably inside the safe part of your property, a wireless dog fence may offer a convenient solution without installing a boundary cable.

If your garden is irregularly shaped, has an open driveway, sits close to a road, contains woodland or outbuildings, has undulating ground, or you need the electronic boundary to follow existing fences and hedges accurately, a wired dog fence offers considerably more flexibility over where the boundary can be positioned.

The most important consideration is not simply whether the system is wireless or wired. It is whether the containment system, boundary design and training programme are appropriate for your dog, your dog’s drive and personality, your property and the hazards around it. 

Wireless vs wired dog fence FAQs

Is a wired dog fence better than a wireless dog fence?

Not in every situation. A wired dog fence offers much greater flexibility over the shape and position of the containment boundary. A wireless dog fence can be quicker to set up and may work well on a relatively level, open property where a circular containment area is appropriate.

What is the main disadvantage of a wireless dog fence?

One of the principal limitations of a traditional wireless dog fence is the shape and consistency of its containment area. Because the boundary is created by a radio signal from a transmitter, it cannot normally follow an irregular garden perimeter as precisely as a wired boundary, and terrain, trees or buildings may affect some systems.

What is the main advantage of a wired dog fence?

A wired dog fence allows the containment boundary to be designed around the actual shape and features of the property. This provides greater flexibility around fences, hedges, driveways, gates, woodland, uneven ground and outbuildings.

Does a wired dog fence have to be underground?

Not necessarily. Although wired systems are sometimes called underground dog fences, the purpose of the boundary cable is to establish the electronic boundary. The most appropriate installation method depends on the property and the particular system.

Do wireless dog fences work in UK gardens?

Yes. A wireless dog fence can work in a UK garden where its containment area can be positioned safely within the property and the site conditions are appropriate. For irregularly shaped gardens, woodland, undulating ground or properties where the boundary needs to follow existing fences, hedges or driveways closely, a wired system may provide greater flexibility.

How many training flags do I need for a dog fence?

The boundary should be clearly marked during training so that the dog has a strong visual reference while learning where it is. As a practical guide, DogFence recommends at least 20 training flags per 100 metres of boundary. Follow the training programme supplied with your particular system and make sure you have enough flags before beginning.

Are wireless and wired dog fences suitable for every dog?

No. No dog containment method is appropriate for every dog. The dog’s age, health, temperament, behaviour, personality and drive, together with the property itself, should all be considered before choosing an electronic dog fence.

The aim of any dog fence is to give your dog freedom while keeping them safe. DogFence has been surrounding pets with freedom since 2003 and has safely contained more than 20,000 pets – real-world evidence that hidden dog fencing can work effectively when it is correctly set up and supported by thorough training and ongoing support.

Golden Retriever running towards an invisible dog fence boundary

Dog running freely within a hidden dog fence boundary marked by training flags

Wireless or wired? Not sure what’s right for your dog?

Tell us about your dog, your garden and what you’re trying to achieve. With more than 20 years’ experience in pet containment, we’ll tell you whether we think a DogFence is suitable – and we’ll tell you if we don’t.

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No pressure. No one-size-fits-all solution. Just experienced advice about the safest way to give your dog more freedom.

Image note: Some images used in this article may be AI-generated for illustrative purposes. They are not intended to show a specific DogFence installation, product or individual dog. All advice and information in this article is written and reviewed by DogFence based on more than 20 years’ experience in electronic pet containment.